Is there a consensus among scholars regarding the superiority of supererogatory prayers over supererogatory ذكر (remembrance of Allah) and reading the Qur'an outside of prayer in terms of reward, and what are the proofs for that?
Prayer is better than dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and reciting the Quran, because it encompasses both, and because it is dhikr in its most perfect form. Also, according to the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "And know that the best of your deeds is prayer." Ibn Taymiyyah reported a consensus that prayer is better than mere dhikr. Prayer is better than reciting (the Quran) outside of prayer, unless someone is more energetic, reflective, and understanding when reciting than when praying; in that case, what is more beneficial for him is better. However, the preference may differ according to the time and situation. For example, prayer may be prohibited at certain times, making recitation better, or glorifying Allah in bowing (ruku') and prostration (sujood) may be better than reciting (the Quran) during them.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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